Washington D.C. – Following the ruling by Trump judge Matthew Kacsmaryk of the Northern District of Texas, which could limit access to the common abortion medication mifepristone, and a subsequent ruling in Washington state by Eastern District court judge Thomas O. Rice ordering the F.D.A. to preserve access to mifepristone, People For the American Way President Svante Myrick released the following statement:

“Reproductive freedom is a fundamental right of all people, a foundation of human dignity and an essential condition for a life of opportunity and liberty. Under Donald Trump the Far Right was able to pack our courts with judges like Matthew Kacsmaryk in Texas and the far-right justices on the Supreme Court, who are doing all they can to undermine that freedom. While we applaud the order by Judge Thomas Rice upholding access to mifepristone, we know there is a difficult and potentially tragic road ahead for people who need this medication while legal battles play out. What we are seeing tonight is crystal clear evidence of the critical role our courts play in upholding vital rights. It has never been more urgent for the Senate to move ahead to fill every federal judicial vacancy with President Biden’s fair-minded, highly qualified nominees.”

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About People For the American Way 

People For the American Way, a national progressive advocacy organization, inspires and mobilizes community and cultural leaders to advance Truth, Justice and the American Way. We convene courageous Americans, produce compelling media and organize campaigns to defend our democracy from authoritarian threats and advance America’s promise that everyone will enjoy freedom, safety and a vote that counts. Learn more: https://www.pfaw.org